Daily Value Magnesium: The ‘Best’ Form Isn’t What You Think Part 1.
Nov 25, 2025
Explore the fascinating world of magnesium supplements and how different forms influence absorption. Discover the chemistry behind magnesium pairing with counter-ions and why it matters for your gut. Learn about the surprising findings from modern studies comparing citrate and oxide forms. Find out how certain magnesium salts, like L-threonate, may enhance cognitive function while others target muscle and bone. Unpack the truth behind marketing claims versus actual benefits for those with magnesium deficiencies.
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Mg2+ Always Comes Paired
- Magnesium always pairs with a counter-ion because Mg2+ is charged and unstable alone.
- The counter-ion determines how the magnesium salt dissolves and thus its availability for absorption.
Dissolution Drives Short-Term Absorption
- Dissolution in stomach acid largely controls acute absorption of magnesium salts.
- In replete people differences shrink, so citrate only absorbed ~2–3% more than oxide in one head-to-head trial.
Label Mg Amounts Don’t Predict Dissolution
- Lab digestion models showed a tenfold range in how much magnesium products release into solution.
- Label elemental magnesium doesn't predict how much will dissolve or become available to your body.